Due to the nature of the ward there is no visiting, but visitors may be allowed dependent on the woman's condition.When in labour only two birthing partners are allowed.

Meal times:

Breakfast 8 - 9 am, Lunch 12 - 1 pm, Dinner 5 - 6 pm

Ward rounds:

A named consultant obstetrician is available 24 hours a day. Regular ward rounds take place throughout the day and involve the consultant, registrar, SHO, anaesthetist, senior midwife and midwife involved in patients' care.

Amenity fund:

Deben Ward Fund No 10317

Additional information:

Key contact:Good communication is very important to everyone: the patient, the family carer, relatives, friends and the nursing team. We would therefore be grateful if, with the permission of the patient, one person such as the family carer or a relative or friend becomes the 'key contact'to enquire about the patient's progress during their stay on the ward, and then passes this information on to others who may be concerned. All other information can be found in the 'Staying as an Inpatient' booklet.

If you have any pregnancy or medical complications, it may be safer for you to give birth in hospital on the labour ward, where both midwives and doctors are present.

Advantages of Hospital Birth

Epidural pain relief is available

Access to doctors and specialist care for mothers and newborn babies

Safer if you have certain medical or pregnancy complications

Disadvantages of Hospital Birth

If you have no pregnancy or medical complications, you are more likely to have an assisted birth, e.g. forceps or a caesarean section, than if you had planned to give birth in a birth centre or at home (Birthplace Study 2011)

Who will be present at my Hospital Birth for Consultant-led care?

A team of midwives and doctors will provide your care.

What pain relief methods can I use in a Hospital Birth?

Water

TENS machine (bought or hired)

Complimentary therapies can be brought in from home

Entonox (gas and oxygen)

Injectable pain relief (pethidine)

Birthing aids such as mats, birthing balls and stools

Hypnobirthing courses are available to help prepare parents for the birth

Some pain relief methods may not be available if you or your baby has certain medical complications.

Support

Remember we are here to support you and your partner with the choices you make. The health and wellbeing of you and your baby is our priority.

Maternity Tours

To help you make your decision, Mums to be and their partner can take a tour of the Ipswich maternity department and see the birthing facilities. You will have opportunities to ask questions before making your choice. Booking is essential for any of the Saturday afternoon tours, please call maternity reception on 01473 703108